Angry drivers hit out at road works

Motorists have complained of delays and frustrations as roadworks once again disrupt the major trunk road between Cookstown and Dungannon.

The most recent road works, which stretch from the junction with Annaginny Road to the junction with Strifehill Road, began at the start of May, and are set to continue to the end of July.

A temporary 40mph speed limit is in place during the upheaval, and motorists have also been diverted on to side roads.

Local drivers have hit out at the poor state of the repaired road, which they claim is uneven and hazardous in places.

Just last year, the same stretch of road underwent a significant resurfacing scheme lasting many months.

Initial plans to close the A29 entirely for three days so the new surface could be finished were met with uproar by local businesses and political representatives.

The Roads Service backtracked and carried out the work during the night to avoid road closure and disruption to businesses.

The current roadworks have been caused by NI Water’s laying of its new Carland to Cookstown Strategic Trunk Main.

The £2m project, which got underway in mid November 2015, involves the laying of almost 12km of new water pipe between Carland Service Reservoir to improve the security of water supply for customers in Cookstown and surrounding areas.

NI Water’s contractor for the scheme, Dawson-Wam, has installed the new water pipe from Annaginny Road, across the A29 and along the Old Cookstown Road.

Commenting on the work, Martin Gillen, NI Water Senior Project Manager said: “NI Water would like to thank residents, businesses and motorists for their patience and co-operation to date while these essential pipe laying works have been ongoing along the A29.”